After a nearly three-year hiatus from international duty, Maduka Okoye is poised to make his long-awaited return to the Super Eagles of Nigeria. The Udinese goalkeeper last featured for the national team in the infamous 1-0 defeat to Tunisia during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16—a game that drew sharp criticism and led to Okoye stepping away from the squad.

Now, with Nigeria gearing up for a crucial AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, the stage is set for Okoye’s redemption. His return is especially timely as Stanley Nwabali, another dependable option between the sticks, has been excused from the squad following the passing of his father.

Okoye vs. Uzoho & Nwabali: The Numbers Speak

Recent statistics highlight why Okoye remains a top choice for Nigeria’s goalkeeping duties. In 16 appearances for the Super Eagles, Okoye has conceded just 11 goals and kept an impressive 8 clean sheets. These figures underscore his efficiency, giving him an edge over his counterparts.

Francis Uzoho, the current first-choice goalkeeper, has 35 caps under his belt but has conceded 35 goals and managed 13 clean sheets. While Uzoho’s experience is undeniable, his higher goals-to-games ratio raises questions about his consistency.

Stanley Nwabali, who made a name for himself with a stellar performance at the 2023 AFCON tournament, has played 17 games, conceding 17 goals and earning 7 clean sheets. Though commendable, his stats fall short of Okoye’s defensive solidity.

A Chance to Reclaim Glory

For Okoye, this isn’t just a return—it’s a chance to rebuild trust with fans and teammates alike. The Super Eagles’ defensive setup has struggled for consistency, and Okoye’s strong club performances with Udinese could provide the boost Nigeria needs.

As the Super Eagles march toward AFCON 2024, all eyes will be on Okoye. Can he rise to the occasion and solidify his place as Nigeria’s undisputed number one? Only time—and his performance against Rwanda—will tell.